Controversial Russian Treason Law Comes Into Force

A controversial law broadening the definition of high treason has come into effect in Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's promise to review it.

The law expands the number of activities that constitute high treason to include cooperating with international organizations seen as working "against the security of Russia."

The bill has been harshly criticized by Western officials and rights activists who say the legislation could criminalize the sharing of information with rights groups such as Amnesty International or the European Court of Human Rights.

Two days before the legislation came into effect on November 14, Putin promised to review the bill to avoid a broad interpretation of treason, but he signed it into law on November 13.